January 1st brought with it changes to laws, regulations and taxes. For small businesses, this means a federal tax rate drop from 10.5 percent to 10 percent. There be a slight increase in EI premiums, which will add an estimated $6 in costs for the average worker and $13 per employee. While not immediate, the federal government has given a deadline of this summer to legalize marijuana. Provincially, Alberta residents will also see the carbon tax increase from $20 per tonne to $30. Alberta’s minimum increase to $15 doesn’t take effect until October 1st.

Read more: New year rings in changes to laws, taxes, wages